The senses, Krishna notes, function independently when the self is detached, freeing the mind from possessiveness. This cultivates a clear vision where actions are neither owned nor avoided, resonating with the Gita’s ethos of selfless duty.

The analogy of a lotus leaf illustrates how, in karma yoga, one can remain unaffected by worldly consequences. Actions dedicated to a higher ideal (Brahman) absolve one from attachment, teaching Arjuna about acting with inner purity.

Krishna stresses purity in action. Yogis act without attachment, motivated by self-discipline rather than desire, and thus avoid bondage. This sets the foundation for Arjuna to see duty as a means of inner purification rather than material gain.

The "city of nine gates" metaphor represents the body, with the detached self residing within as an observer. This analogy encourages Arjuna to view himself as distinct from his physical actions, laying groundwork for liberation through detachment.

Krishna describes how the Supreme does not create individual agency or karma but simply facilitates existence. This redefines the concept of free will, framing actions as products of one’s nature rather than divine imposition.

Ignorance obscures self-knowledge, Krishna notes, causing people to act with attachment. He hints at the dualistic perception that binds souls, pointing Arjuna toward realizing his own eternal, detached self behind these veils.